Bus drivers transport people between various places—including work, school, and shopping malls—and across state or national borders. Some drive regular routes, and others transport passengers on chartered trips or sightseeing tours.

Bus drivers, especially transit and intercity bus drivers, had a higher rate of work-related injuries and illnesses in 2014 than the national average. Most injuries to bus drivers were due to highway accidents.

Bus drivers must have a commercial driver's license (CDL). This can sometimes be earned during on-the-job training. A bus driver must possess a clean driving record and often may be required to pass a background check. They also must meet physical, hearing and vision requirements. In addition, bus drivers often need a high school diploma or the equivalent.

The median annual wage for bus drivers was $30,950 in May 2015.

Employment of bus drivers is projected to grow 6 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Job opportunities for bus drivers should be favorable, especially for school bus drivers, as many drivers are expected to leave the occupation.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for bus drivers.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of bus drivers with similar occupations.

Learn more about bus drivers by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.